NC Central University Opens AI Institute for All

A new artificial intelligence institute has opened at North Carolina Central University, marking the first of its kind at a Historically Black College and University. The Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research is designed to provide students with hands-on experience in developing and using AI tools for businesses, as well as understanding their potential biases and limitations.

The university’s campus now features several state-of-the-art research and training spaces, including an AI literacy studio, a robotics and emerging tech lab, and an extended reality experimentation sandbox. These facilities will serve not only students but also faculty members who can leverage seed grant funding for AI-related projects.

Founding director Siobahn Day Grady emphasized that the institute’s mission is to make AI accessible to everyone on campus, including those outside of computer science departments. ‘AI used to be something specifically just for computer scientists,’ she said, ‘but with AI tools now it’s accessible to everyone.’

The university has already seen significant impact from its efforts, with over 2,500 people affected by the institute’s work in the past year and a half, including students who have taken introductory courses on AI. Starting this fall, NC Central will offer an AI minor for students interested in exploring the subject further.

Faculty members are also being encouraged to engage with AI research through seed grant funding opportunities. However, some concerns remain about the potential effects of AI on academic integrity and critical thinking skills. A recent study by the American Association of Colleges and Universities found that faculty worry about these issues.

In response to these worries, Chancellor Karrie Dixon emphasized the importance of guiding students in responsible AI usage. ‘Technology moves faster than trust,’ she said. ‘We have to educate our campus community on how to use AI in a way that’s both effective and ethical.’

The institute was made possible through a $7 million investment from NC Central University, including federal funds and a $1 million contribution from Google. On Monday, the university hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the facility, attended by local government leaders such as Congresswoman Valerie Foushee.

Foushee highlighted the significance of this initiative in preparing students for high-demand careers and expanding access to emerging technologies for underrepresented communities. ‘Our future cannot be built by just a few tech billionaires and CEOs,’ she said. ‘This institute matters because it will prepare students, strengthen research partnerships, support entrepreneurs, and expand access to emerging technologies.’